I must say I answered my own question, This board is great!! I had my first day of the season yesterday!!! Started snowboarding at the end of last season, I had a Lib Tech Skate Banana. Ended up selling it and bought this board. I still consider myself a beginner and I have to say that this is the perfect board to learn on, It gives you the confidence you need to advance. As a beginner I was skeptical about buying this board because it is recommended for advance boarders but I have to say that it was just what I needed. It keeps you from catching an edge and it super stable at fast speed. I have to say on my skate banana I was scared to go fast, well not anymore. I find myself going faster and faster. To all beginners if you have the money this is the board for you to learn on trust me!!!